Dentures and partial dentures are dental appliances that are worn to replace either an entire arch of missing teeth or when there are a series of teeth missing. There are two different types of denture procedures available. The first is known as the conventional method, where you will have remaining teeth removed from the mouth and will wait for the dentures to be made, going without teeth during this process. The second is known as the immediate method, where dentures are made before the teeth are extracted and the denture is placed on top of the area while it is healing. Immediate dentures will need to be adjusted after they are placed, and the mouth heals from the extractions.

When Do You Need Dentures?

There are several reasons why you may need to have dentures placed. By making an appointment with the office, you can come in for a consultation to determine whether dentures or partial dentures are the best choice for you. Here are some reasons you may need dentures:

• If you have no teeth on one complete arch or are going to have remaining decayed teeth removed
• If you are missing a significant amount of teeth
• If your teeth are shifting and you need a partial denture to prevent this from becoming a problem
• If you want to improve your smile and increase your self-esteem
• If you want or need to improve facial structure to avoid a pitted look to the cheeks

What to Expect with Treatment

The process of having new dentures made can take several weeks and a few separate appointments. If teeth need to be removed to make room for the dentures, the extractions will be your first appointment. Next, impressions (molds) are made and sent off to a dental lab where the dentures are made specifically for you according to tooth structure, shape and color. Over the course of several weeks, you will come into the office to have the dentures adjusted so that they are comfortable and look natural. If at any point you are unhappy with your new dentures or need them to be adjusted, be sure to contact our office to come in immediately. It is common to experience difficulties in eating and talking as you get used to your new dentures, so allow for some time for adjustment.